Meeting Huckabee

What a night! Met Gov. Mike Huckabee in person - photo proves it! Handsome buy on the right is my dear Hubby, Charley.
He was here in Champaign, IL to raise money for a home for unwed mothers. This man is so wise, so humble, so 'Lincoln'ess'.
He is the first one in his family to even graduate from HIGH SCHOOL!
I told him I pray daily for clear guidance from God regarding if he should run for president. I pray he will! I think he will!
His message was that in the Declaration of Independence it was so novel of an idea that we were all created equal because at that time - that really didn't seem to be the case - it was more how much land you owned, or your family name....... but THAT idea, that we were created EQUAL, and endowed with unalienable rights by OUR CREATOR - gives each one of us value. And that means ANY human being - whether in the womb, or in a nursing home.
Once we determine a human's worth based upon finances or social 'interruption' - and when you get down to it, those are the 2 determining factors used to argue in favor of abortion - we have set the bar (very , very dangerously) LOW. My mother is in a nursing home with Alzheimer's. Yes, it is a monetary drain. Yes, she is not 'contributing' the way some 'see' it. But she is my Mom, and God has her here for a purpose. Until HE calls her home to heaven to be with him, there is something for me to learn from her. She has rights, she is worthy of our love and our support.
THAT's the kind of president I WANT and PRAY for!
Join me in praying that Mick Huckabee run, and WIN! And reclaim our dear land for God, as it began.

Exciting Mail today!!!

Got the most exciting mail I've received in a long time today - my autographed copy of Mike Huckabee's newest book, A Simple Government!!!!!
This man of wisdom, character and experience is a blessing to our country and I intend to do everything my schedule allows to help him get elected to be our next President. It's hard, but I'm not going to start the book til I land in the airport and on the plane to the Sewing & Stitchery Expo - for the expressed purpose of using it to share with others about him.
Here's a recent email if you'd care to read it. Simple. Honest. Humble. That's the kind of leadership I pray for for my country!

"Tomorrow, I kick-off my book tour for A Simple Government. I wrote this book because I am sick and tired of watching the Obama administration and the career politicians in Washington stumble over decision after decision.

A Simple Government is about the twelve things I believe we really need from Washington to get the country back on the right track.

It’s my hope these twelve essential truths will have you nodding in agreement, whether you're a Republican, an Independent, or even an open-minded Democrat. I believe they can help us put aside our differences, tone down the partisanship, and return to the simple principles of the Founding Fathers: liberty, justice, personal freedom, and civic virtue. And they can help us tackle even the most seemingly complicated of today's problems.

These are just some of the things I discuss:

* You can't spend what you don't have; you can't borrow what you can't pay back. Families, businesses, towns, cities, and states all have to balance their budgets or face dire consequences. Why shouldn't the federal government be held to the same standard? And if that means making some hard choices now, it's a far better alternative than saddling our kids and grandkids.

* The further you drift from shore, the more likely you are to be lost at sea. The Founders expected the federal government to be subordinate to state and local governments. How can politicians in DC know the best way to help farmers in Iowa, autoworkers in Michigan, or teachers in California? They can't. So every problem should be solved at the most local level capable of solving it.

* Bullies in the playground only understand one thing. There's a time and place for diplomacy, but we can't protect the country just by negotiating with our enemies. We need a strong national defense and a counterterrorism policy that focuses on effectiveness, not political correctness.

* The most important form of government is the family. In the long run, the only way to ensure prosperity, safety, and equal opportunity is to make sure we raise our children to be ethical and productive citizens. No bureaucracy can replace parents in that essential role, so we have to do everything possible to help parents do their job.

As I said, I have laid out twelve foundational ideas for the reclaiming of our government by “We the People.” I hope, you will take a moment and learn about my new book because I truly believe you’ll agree with and enjoy much of what I’ve written. You can learn more about A Simple Government by visiting my website here.

You can also learn more about the book tour, RSVP for one of its stops and find useful links to help you purchase the book.

Please keep an eye on your email inbox for another message from me early next week about the book and how the tour is going. Enjoy the remainder of your weekend!

With gratitude,

Mike Huckabee

P.S. Learn more about my new book A Simple Government by visiting my website here."

Venting....

OK - I'm venting. I'm a political beast at heart. My hubby has said many times he's relieved I'm 'occupied' with my creative sewing career! Taking a break from writing that will become the 2nd edition of my book on Creative Sweatshirt Jackets.....

1. Just toured the school where my DD is doing her student teaching. That one - along with every other one I've been in built any time in the last 10 years would make what I went to school in (and learned quite well in, thank you very much!) look like the dires of poverty! Carpet - everywhere! I mean - even in rooms where they EAT!
There is NO reason on this earth why our schools today need to be Taj Mahals!!! In fact, with all the 'stuff' everywhere in the room - it's no surprise to me that children are 'distracted' ala ADHD!
2. Politicians and federal employees across the board must learn to live by the SAME RULES as the rest of us!
Sharing from a source I trust...
"

No one has been able to explain to me why young men and women serve in the U.S. Military for 20 years, risking their lives protecting freedom, and only get 50% of their pay. While politicians hold their political positions in the safe confines of the capital, protected by these same men and women, and receive full pay retirement after serving one term. It just does not make any sense.

Checked snopes - read here: http://www.snopes.com/politics/socialsecurity/pensions.asp
I just feel they really are just like us - and if they were properly motivated, they would serve humbly instead of acting like aristocracy! They deserve the same as you and I. No better, no worse. Yes - I'm a conservative, Christian - and most of the time Republican.

35 States file lawsuit against the Federal Government

Governors of 35 states have filed suit against the Federal Government for imposing unlawful burdens upon them. It only takes 38 (of the 50) States to convene a Constitutional Convention.

This will take less than thirty seconds to read. If you agree, please pass it on."

For too long we have been too complacent about the workings of Congress. Many citizens had no idea that members of Congress could retire with the same pay after only one term, that they specifically exempted themselves from many of the laws they have passed (such as being exempt from any fear of prosecution for sexual harassment) while ordinary citizens must live under those laws. The latest is to exempt themselves from the Healthcare Reform... in all of its forms. Somehow, that doesn't seem logical. We do not have an elite that is above the law. I truly don't care if they are Democrat, Republican, Independent or whatever. The self-serving must stop.

If each person that receives this will forward it on to 20 people, in three days, most people in The United States of America will have the message.. This is one proposal that really should be passed around.

Proposed 28th Amendment to the United States Constitution: "Congress shall make no law that applies to the citizens of the United States that does not apply equally to the Senators and/or Representatives; and, Congress shall make no law that applies to the Senators and/or Representatives that does not apply equally to the citizens of the United States."

Now - back to what I CAN control - my directions on creative sewing!

Materialism and Feminism hurt our kids, Alzheimers observations

Let me vent - as I observe my grandchild's experience, and what is expected from our very young in these days - my observation is that 2 things: feminism (taking women outside the home when children are young) and materialism (the basic reason for the first I think) are really hurting our kids. However, I completely realize that for many there is no choice, as we've had that situation in our family as well - but I'm talking about for those for whom there really IS a choice - if materialism wasn't so rampant.

Gheesh - my hubby didn't even have the chance to go to Kindergarten - it didn't exist! And, I'm sure I didn't hardly know my alphabet, much less know how to write it all when I started kindergarten! I went to a neighborhood school - walking home for lunch with my Mommy. And I certainly didn't ride a bus with a bunch of rowdy older kids to start my day. All made possible because my dear Mom WAS at home!

I praise my daughters' ability to deal with all this, her insight and maturity - and pray that her experiences will make her all that much more wonderful of a teacher herself someday soon. I pray for every young family these days - the daily challenges are more than they should be. Oh, that they all just put the LORD at the head of their homes!

Alzheimers Observations... yesterday I made the time to stay with my mom at the unit longer than usual. She is adjusting very nicely - the people there are so wonderful to her. Once adjusted to seeing through their eyes, the residents there are wonderful packages to unwrap! The lady who claps constantly claps in time to the music! Commenting on her long fingers and asking if she played the piano in the past - I find she certainly did! THEY had to teach ME how to play UNO! Lord, these people are most precious in Your site! Help me see them as You do, and not through my eyes, through my life's expectations. This is what I fear with Obamacare - that life will not be valued in Godly view, but a monetary view only. Save us from that!


All this reminds me that much more to value each and every days' blessings - not as though I deserve a good day, but that I should be ever grateful as a sinner for every good day sent my way rather than one of calamity. As I offer 'things' for sale at my website, my booth as I travel, it all makes me that much more intent to humbly offer creative experience over stuff. I truly believe, as we create - we can, in some small way, get closer to the God that created us!

Makes sense to me - 28th Amendment

An idea whose time has come - regardless of your part or politics...

For too long we have been too complacent about the workings of Congress. Many citizens had no idea that members of Congress could retire with the same pay after only one term, that they didn't pay into Social Security, that they specifically exempted themselves from many of the laws they have passed (such as being exempt from any fear of prosecution for sexual harassment) while ordinary citizens must live under those laws. The latest is to exempt themselves from the Healthcare Reform that is being considered...in all of its forms. Somehow, that doesn't seem logical. We do not have an elite that is above the law. I truly don't care if they are Democrat, Republican, Independent or whatever. The self-serving must stop. This is a good way to do that. It is an idea whose time has come.

Have each person contact a minimum of Twenty people on their Address list, in turn ask each of those to do likewise.

In three days, most people in The United States of America will have the message. This is one proposal that really should be passed around.

Proposed 28th Amendment to the United States Constitution

"Congress shall make no law that applies to the citizens of the United States that does not apply equally to the Senators and/or Representatives; and, Congress shall make no law that applies to the Senators and/or Representatives that does not apply equally to the citizens of the United States."

Sarah Palin's Book - MY Opinion

I really don't want my sewing blog to become political, but as a business woman, and an American, and a Blog being where you are supposed to 'go on record' about things - I'm gonna state how I feel.... Take it, leave it, comments are welcome.

I just finished Sarah's book, "Going Rogue" and were my eyes ever opened - in a way that they similarly were when I read Governor Huckabee's "Do The Right Thing". Granted, the book is from her point of view -but I saw from the inside, this woman's fresh perspective, and ability to get things done. That can NOT be argued - if you just read for yourself the facts. As a woman, and a mother - she has my utmost respect. She has kept her honor, and her priorities Godly, and that serves as a model for me in my life.

The same goes for Gov. Huckabee's book - and the story of HIS campaign, and his stance on the issues of our days. Indeed, if everyone would just "Do the Right Thing" - putting others first, rather than themselves, the world would be a different place.

Honestly, it is beyond my comprehension why ANYONE who isn't a narcissist at heart would want to run for public office in our country! I am awed by people like Palin and Huckabee who have done that and are still 'out there' deciding if they might want to serve again...amazing! In my book, only because they have faith in our God above, as modeled to us through His son, Jesus, and the power and peace that that gives them, were they able to 'live through' - and live through VICTORIOUSLY everything that came with their office - and a presidential/VP run.

I can't recommend highly enough these 2 people, these 2 Americans, and their books written this year. If you REALLY want to know the stories - read these books yourself! Make up your OWN mind. Don't let commentators - radio, TV, print sway you. Read and decide for YOURSELF. I have done so, and believe and pray that either/both of them will decide to answer the call, if, indeed, God leads them in that direction.

Count me OUT for Black Friday!

I got stopped in my tracks again today...when I attended what turned out to be a 'Seniors' type luncheon at the church we are attending. What a blessing it turned out to be! I had convinced myself to take a break from work to go - figuring it could only 'cost' me about 1.5 hours of valuable work time...figuring I HAD to get out a newsletter with ALL my clearance inventory up, etc. by a certain (TOO near) date....

Well...the meditation given by the pastor hit me between the eyes!
Thanksgiving...the 'forgotten' holiday observance! Wow - was he right on! Once Halloween is past - it is full force ahead for Christmas. For us 'retailers' out there - that means hustling to get our share of the proverbial 'Black Friday' (Day after Thanksgiving retail sales). Online is no different from storefront retailing. Honestly - I HATE what being a retailer has done to my holiday spirit! Sew...I'm gonna try my best to change that, starting with THIS year!

Some Thanksgiving REAL History, folks...

• The pastor shared, from research, that in 1621 The first Thanksgiving meal - by the pilgrims was at the conclusion of a time of FASTING (that means NO eating) when they sought God with all their hearts - THANKING him for His provision. Half of them had died...but those that were left were THANKFUL. The end of that FAST was the Thanksgiving Meal.

That is far, far from what has become a day of stuffing ourselves silly and resting in preparation for the craziness of shopping with money we (most likely) do NOT have, for things we do NOT need.

• Other interesting Thanksgiving facts can be found at the link above, or HERE

Sew..... I've eased up on myself regarding all this crazy pressure to make sales for business year end at this time of Thanksgiving. Instead...

I'm gonna clean out the kitchen pantry tomorrow, clean, and prepare a simple meal to share with some friends. I've made a realistic list of the 'work' for business I can get done - and by when. Hopefully, we'll have some more friends over on Sunday (the house should still be clean!), and then on Thanksgiving day - after we share a meal with the parents I'm thankful to still have with us, my hubby and I are going to go to the Urbana High School to serve a Thanksgiving meal to the many, many less fortunate folks in our community.

Above all, my heart will be purposefully THANKFUL for all the provisions for safety, food, and shelter and living in the USA where I am a free person. AFTER that time to be thankful and serve others, I pray that I can remain reasonable and enjoy what CHRISTMAS is all about. Christ - his coming to earth to show us the character of God.

ANd... I'll start by sending a Christmas Card - a Christian Christmas Card to the ACLU! Tons of Christmas Cards in their mail will freeze theri operations because they'll have to open them all looking for contributions! I don't believe in "Holiday Trees' - they are Christmas Trees! If you don't already know - it is the ACLU suing the U.S. to take God, Christmas or anything Christian away from us. Join with me in putting Christ back into Christmas!

Join me...their address is: ACLU 125 Broad Street 18th Floor New York, NY 10004

For a true History Lesson on that infamous phrase: "Separation of Church & State" - click on the link below - give it THREE minutes of your time!

http://www.youtube.com/user/MySpiritof1776

USA Cries - and plays Christian Hymns

I'm watching the memorial service for those fallen in the horrific Fort Hood massacre. Aside from political concerns, today - my heart cries for these families, these soldiers, this base, and for our country!
I can't help but observe that the music played is the comforting melody of Christian hymns. Yes, indeed, this is a country founded on Judeao-Christian values.
My prayer is that we return to those values that we turn to when tragedy strikes. We MUST if we are to again have the special blessing of the God we love.

Not My Tax Dollars to Fund Abortion!

I am staunchly PRO Life - as I have stated before.
I want to help get the facts out there about the current 'health care initiative' regarding abortion - and am pasting here below what I just got in an email from AUL; Americans United for Life:

"Perfect example: Planned Parenthood’s spin machine has issued a “Reality Check,” attacking what Richards says are “myths” spread by pro-lifers -- and twisting the truth so much it made my head feel like it was in a spin machine. I showed it to our legal team, and they responded with some masterful mythbusting of their own. Here’s their take on the abortion industry’s three biggest myths about health care reform:

MYTH: Pro-life groups want to strip reproductive health from health care reform.
Reality: Pro-life groups want to protect women’s reproductive health. And we do not want to deny women insurance coverage. However AUL, along with the vast majority of Americans, believes that “Real health care respects life!” No matter what Planned Parenthood says, abortion does not equal reproductive health. And health coverage should not include the destruction of unborn children. Furthermore, no one should be forced to violate their conscience by performing, referring for, paying for, or providing coverage for abortion. And make no mistake, that’s what the bills under consideration would do.

MYTH: The health care reform bills before Congress will not change the “status quo” regarding insurance coverage of abortion. Reality: An amendment added to H.R. 3200 permits the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to include abortion in the public health insurance plan, and requires abortion coverage if the Hyde amendment is ever reversed. The current Secretary of HHS, Kathleen Sebelius, is staunchly pro-abortion and would certainly include abortion, allowing for immediate federal funding of elective abortion coverage. The provision also requires that all areas of the country contain one private plan that covers abortion and permits taxpayer funding of private plans that cover elective abortion.

The Senate HELP bill delegates to a “Medical Advisory Committee” the role of deciding what benefits any private or public health care plan must offer. This Committee is expected to include abortion as a required minimum benefit. Further, based on court precedent, private plans would be forced by the government to include coverage of abortion -- this is a drastic change from the status quo in which private plans may elect to cover abortion and individuals may choose whether or not to purchase health insurance that offers coverage of abortion. Ironically, “pro-choice” activists are trying to take consumer choice out of health care.

MYTH: The health care reform bills before Congress do not mandate abortion coverage.
Reality: Both H.R. 3200 and the Senate HELP bill mandate abortion in several ways:

an amendment to H.R. 3200 permits and may require abortion coverage in the public health insurance plan, and permits taxpayer funding of private plans that cover elective abortion;
prior court holdings which state that abortion is included within several of Medicaid’s mandatory categories of care (inpatient services, outpatient services, and preventative care) will certainly apply to any federal statute revising Medicaid and involving health care reform, and;
the rejection of several key pro-life amendments in the House and Senate Committees, where the inclusion would have ensured that abortion was not funded in the bills, demonstrates that the bills are intended to mandate abortion.
If you’re trying to sort out the myths from facts on health care reform, the best place to start is AUL Action’s RealHealthCareRespectsLife.com. The site features in-depth analysis from our legal team, showing how the health care reform plans currently under consideration by Congress would mandate abortion coverage, strip providers of their rights of conscience, and threaten the ill and elderly with denial of care. Also, if you’re going to a town hall meeting this month, download our special town-hall flyer and distribute it to show your friends and neighbors to show that Real Health Care Respects Life.

Thank you for joining me in working to protect and defend life!


Yours For Life,

Charmaine Yoest, Ph.D.
President & CEO "

Went to My First Political Meeting.......

On Monday, I went to my first political meeting - happened to be the Senior Republican local group. I really call myself an Independent thee days - truly disgusted with most politicians - regardless of whether they're 'red' or 'blue'. As far as I'm concerned, they all have let the power and trust we placed in them go to their heads!!!! TERM LIMITS - that's what we need - that's what was planned in the first place. These people are just all too full of themselves.

WHY oh WHY wouldn't they want to PROVE they had decided the best in health care reform for us by RUNNING to sign up for the same - not REFUSING the same plan??????????????????????

And this not reading bills before voting? Gee golly whiz - I could say the same thing about my house contract?? That I just didn't have time to read it before I signed it - therefore I shouldn't be held responsible for what I signed??? It's the same ridiculous thinking! A friend of mine suggested the other night that we pass a law that every legislator must pass a POP QUIZ on any legislation before he is granted the RIGHT to vote on it!

Representing me? I really don't think so - they are representing themselves - and usually not even honest enough to realize that they are so buffaloed by what someone has said they'd give them ($ for their re-election campaign or a better loan on their mansion of a house) that they don't even KNOW what they believe - they just OWE people.

I was reading in Romans 3 today in the Message and these words jumped out at me...
"Our lives get in step with God and all others by letting HIM set the pace,not by proudly or anxiously trying to run the parade."

A gentleman was at the meeting letting us know he is strongly considering a run for state Congressman against a woman who is so 'in bed' with Chicago politicians that it makes us cry - and his presentation was quite inspiring. After the meeting, I had one important question for him - "On what basis do you make your moral decisions? What is your 'rudder'?" When he answered 'Jesus because I am a Christian' - I gave him my business card and said I'd be happy to work in his campaign any way that I could.

To me... That says it all. I'm just praying - fervently for our country these days - specifically that these 'leaders' so entirely, disgustedly full of themselves and only themselves GO AWAY - either by the Lord taking them out in some miraculous manner, or us voting them out. I can only figure that God - who is in control - knows where we are in this country, and has let us fall this far in the hopes that we FINALLY seek HIM again as a nation.

I'm AGAINST National Health Care

While I agree that health care is a mess - I also believe that the bills as have been put forth so far will be MORE of a mess. As a politically active (independent) Christian woman, my stand against this is based on 2 simple facts.

1. It is obvious to me that our "greatest generations" (my parents, and mine - of the Baby Boomers entering retirement age) will undoubtedly be denied health care we desire. The government will be deciding for us when our lives are not 'worthy' of the all-important $$$$. In the most popular program being considered is included "Every 5 years have a discussion with my doctor about end of life measures"???? THAT is a personal,moral, religious decision - one that I base on the sanctity of human life - and NOT One that I care to have my government involved in.

2. My tax dollars (AND a huge debt for my children and grandchildren) will be forced to pay for abortions! Planned Parenthood (largest provider of abortions in our country) is included in this program. I am completely and without any reservations TOTALLY AGAINST abortion. Yes, even in the case of rape or incest - as if, as an infertile woman in early marriage desperately wanting a child, I had been given the option of adopting a baby from those circumstances, it would have been a way to create something good out of something bad - and I'd have easily said yes. The programs being discussed all include tax $ being used for abortion - denying our future generations life. NO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I have many tasks today, but first I am contacting the 'Blue Dog Democrats' (contact lists easily found via Google)saying THANK YOU for being the roadblock, and encouraging them to hold fast against this railroaded program.


I believe that entitlement mentality - selfishness is king here. My hubby and I - like many of the baby boomers, are looking at the end of the 'formal working years'. His employer-provided health care is not great, and we have to pay dearly for mine though that program. We would love nothing better than to just do my business - traveling doing Sewing Expos, guild and shop engagements, and my website business. The thing holding us back is that we're not old enough for Medicare yet - several years away (he turns 60 soon and I am 'just' 57). Therefore, it would be easy to selfishly think that a government plan would 'solve our dilemna'. Well - I really don't think it would. AND, the 2 reasons I've stated above ON MORAL, RELIGIOUS grounds - prevent me from endorsing any such program - REGARDLESS of the 'benefit' it might appear to provide our situation.

If we could just all forget ourselves and what WE want NOW - and put others and our children and God's laws FIRST - most of our problems today would be immediately solved. As the man I most admire right now (Mike Huckabee) says - 'Just Do The Right Thing."

American ONLY June 4-July 1

Just read this email and whole-heartedly agree!!!!!!! I"m supporting the BUY American for June 4 to July 1 - and hope you will heartedly and patriotically join me and many others...
pass it on.......

For my part - I'm reducing the price of the USA Comfort Color Sweatshirts - MADE IN THE USA $5 for the month of June 4-July 4. AND INCREASING the cost of the Authentic Pigment Sweatshirts made in CHINA $5. AND stating my reason both in my customer email AND on my website.

The additional $5 I make from any of the Authentic Pigment Sweatshirts will be added donated to a family that I've been involved with through my church through a local Christian benevolent organization, the Empty Tomb. I've been helping out at the house - organizing, teaching organization, and painting - and have told the lady of the house I"ll teach she and her daughter how to sew a bit as a help them 'decorate' the new kitchen with some curtains.



"I WAS BUYING FOOD THE OTHER DAY AT THE COUNTRY MARKET. ON THE LABEL OF SOME PRODUCTS IT SAID FROM CHINA.FOR EXAMPLE THE "OUR FAMILY" BRAND OF THE MANDARIN ORANGES SAYS RIGHT ON THE CAN FROM CHINA I WAS SHOCKED!! SO FOR A FEW MORE CENTS I BOUGHT THE LIBERTY GOLD BRAND OR THE DOLE IS FROM CAL. TAKES FOREVER JUST TO BUY FOOD AND DO LABEL READING ! ! Are we Americans as dumb as we appear --- or --- is it that we just do not think? While the Chinese, knowingly and intentionally, export inferior and even toxic products and dangerous toys and goods to be sold in American markets , the media wrings its hands and criticizes the Bush Administration for perceived errors. Yet 70% of Americans believe that the trading privileges afforded to the Chinese should be suspended. Well, duh..why do you need the government to suspend trading privileges? SIMPLY DO IT YOURSELF, AMERICA!! Simply look on the bottom of every product you buy, and if it says ' Made in China ' or 'PRC' (and that now includes Hong Kong ), simply choose another prod uct, or none at all. You will be amazed at how dependent you are on Chinese products, and you will be equally amazed at what you can do without. Who needs plastic eggs to celebrate Easter ? If you must have eggs, use real ones and benefit some American farmer. Easter is just an example, the point is do not wait for the government to act. Just go ahead and assume control on your own. THINK ABOUT THIS If 200 million Americans refuse to buy just $20 each of Chinese goods, that's a billion dollar trade imbalance resolved in our favor...fast!! The downside? Some American businesses will feel a temporary pinch from having foreign stockpiles of inventory. Wahhhhhhhhhhhh The solution? Let's give them fair warning and send our own message. Most of the people who have been reading about this matter are planning on implementing this on June 4, and continue it until July 4. That is only one month of trading losses, but it will hit the Chinese for 1/12th of the total, or 8%, of their American exports. Then they will at least have to ask themselves if the benefits of their arrogance and lawlessness were worth it. ! Remember, June 4 to July 4. EVEN BETTER. . . START NOW.

Send this to everybody you know. Let's show them that we are Americans and NOBODY can take us for granted. If we can't live without cheap Chinese goods for one month out of our lives, WE DESERVE WHAT WE GET! Pass it on, America"

Political Gripe - Why isn't having representation enough?

Just got one more email - and I'm sure the mail box will have at least 2 more appeals for money for whoever to fight more crazy government control and takeovers and pro choice stuff.
THEN - picked up the phone and called my congressman, and zapped off some emails to representatives to share my opinion.

WHAT I THINK is that if everyone would just voice their opinions - first at the ballot box, AND THEN CONTINUALLY to combat the effect of the lobbyists on their representatives in government, that this Democracy of ours would work just fine. If they don't represent my feelings, I just have to wait and vote them out next time.

If I sent $25 or whatever off to every appeal - it is just like another tax! I can't afford that - and they money they spend in the mailings - ughhh! Then you're made to feel guilt when you don't send off money. The ONLY money I will spend is a bit to support a candidate I believe in. Period.

That's the way our government works. The only change I'd make is TERM LIMITS!!! Perhaps 2 terms for any and all positions. Period.

Off my soap box.....and to listen to fair, balanced, and reasonable on FOX NEWS!!!

Common Sense Government

An email from 'my man in politics' - Mike Huckabee sent me an email today saying what I'm pasting below. See if it doesn't make sense to ya, and if this isn't what you'd LOVE to be hearing more of from our 'leaders'!

"Dear Worried American,
As a child of the Great Depression, my mother wasn't able to go to college -- but I swear she was smarter than the educated people who are running the country right now.
And if Mom were alive today, she'd probably give our leaders the same scolding she used to give me: "You have a champagne appetite and a Coca-Cola paycheck."
That was her way of saying that, when you want something you can't afford, you have to work hard and save up for it. But if you try to live beyond your means, you'll end up with nothing but big debts and a bad reputation.
Advice like that used to be common sense, of course. And it still is, among the vast majority of "Main Street" Americans who work hard, pay their mortgages, and rely on themselves -- not government -- to provide for their families and their retirement.
But in what I call the "Wall Street-to-Washington Axis of Power," different rules apply. Your bank is failing because you lent billions to unqualified borrowers? No problem: Here's a multi-billion-dollar bailout to cover your losses -- and to pay yourselves obscene bonuses. Your trillion-dollar budget has no room for a new set of big-government entitlements? No problem: We'll just print a few trillion more dollars -- and worry about inflation later.
That may not be the "change" that many Americans voted for last November -- but it's the change we're all getting. And we're stuck with it for at least a few more years. "

He then goes on to recommend an investment newsletter for those with money to invest which you can find HERE

As a Christian, I put my faith in the Lord Jesus Christ - and that, knowing all, He will return at the point in time that has already been determined. However, the direction our country is going definitely concerns me, and I spend time each day it seems writing to my legislators. Regardless of your opinion - I hope you do the same. We can't stand by and say nothing...

Red Envelope Initiative

A website sewing friend sent this to me - and I fully, whole-heartedly and emotionally support it - and encourage you to do the same. Life is life, human is human, and every one life is God-ordained. My arms ached for years to hold my own baby - but God answered my prayers another way - to grow my children IN my heart - not UNDER it. As the mother of 2 children by adoption - I can truthfully say that I'm SURE there is a home for EVERY unwanted child. ANd that INCLUDES children products of rape. If we'd been offered a child that the mother lovingly brought to life - even though a product of rape - we'd have gladly accepted.

Send your RED ENVELOPE - empty - today to the White House:

President Barack Obama
The White House
1600 Penssylvania Avenue
Washington, DC 20500

with this written on the back: "This envelope represents one child who died in abortion. It is empty because that life was unable to offer anything to the world. Responsibility begins with conception."

I've given just one website as a link - just google for Red Envelope and you'll read much, much more.

Ramblings for Early March

Hmmmm...... Have you ever notice all the crud around the edges of the carpet in women's dressing rooms??? That really bugs me! Stores...VACUUM your dressing rooms!!
And - while you're in there, take notice to see if the bottom of those full length mirrors are tilted OUT, towards you. If so - that is one dirty trick to make you look slimmer, taller than reality. Consider yourself warned.

New GREAT Book: My dear daughter brought this one to my attention - though I'd seen the author on one of the talk shows and did know what she was referring to. Eat This Not That . I don't ever even run to the grocery store these days without it! For example: Breyers All Natural Chocolate Chip Ice Cream can save you 150 calories and 11 grams of fat over Haagen Daz Mint Chip . Triscuits - Original over Wheat Thins - Reduced Fat. It even helped us fine Stretch Island Fruit Co smooshed fruit in the roll-up type of snack thing that my grandson loves. I know, I know - we could all read the labels, and we sure do in my house after my hubby's heart attack 3 years ago. But, this book makes it simple, simple with photos of each product TO grab on the left instead of those on the right. WalMart had it for under $14 - and a regular $25 book.

I'm in the Esther Beth Moore Bible Study at church right now, and what a blessing it is! From my study yesterday... I write some of what Beth says in first person to myself in my journal, and here from 3-4: "I desire to sit on YOUR side rather than serving myself all the way to meaninglessness. I am called to a purposeful life. I need to always ask myself: Is this a critical moment? A make or break moment? If I make a man-ward vs God-ward decision - will I be left out of a divine loop that would eventually mean everything to me?" She helped me really see that a war is being waged in the heavenly realm and great witnesses in heaven are cheering me on in my decisions. All this from 'for such a time as this" quote from Esther 4:14 where Mordecai sends the message to Esther that she really MUST go talk to King Xerxes and convince him to NOT kill all the Jews.

Beth's study on Daniel really impacted me in ways hard to describe. It makes it so crystal clear how our world has gone so totally askew...we continue to break the first commandment: Have NO other Gods before me. We do that when we insist on someone to get us out of any fix we get ourselves into...whether it be a greedy mortgage we insisted on, or as a company asking the government to save us, or asking the government to pay our medical bills, or when - even as a top government official - we cheat on our taxes! When anything and everything is more important to us than God is - then we have it all wrong, and deserve the trouble we get ourselves into!
Check out Beth's studies wherever you are. She makes the Bible SO revelant to our daily lives - you just can't believe it until you hear her. You can also access many of her products, DVD, CD, and even downloads online at her site: http://www.lproof.org/default.asp

Again - to me, Gov. Huckabee is the only one singing the right song - just "Do The Right Thing"!!!!! Though I often agree with Rush Limbaugh, and I believe his intent is good, he has put himself in that 'God' seat. At least in my humble opinion. I'll listen to him, I just don't make him into the God he wants to portray himself as.

For Huckabee, and for me - that 'right thing' is clearly defined in God's Word, the Holy Bible. In these days of doom and gloom, I trust in the fact, I depend on the fact that God - as revealed in the Bible, and demonstrated to me in an eartly way in the person of Jesus Christ - is all I need for my joy and my security!

Ohh - and I just have to share this poignant tale I received on the internet yesterday...regarding abortion. As a God-made mommy through adoption of 2 infants 27 and 30 years ago, I am unabashadly pro-life. Believe me, it would NOT have mattered if the child offered to us was the product of a rape, or born to a prisoner........none of that mattered then, nor would it now. As our birth announcements said - our children grew IN our hearts, not under mine.
Here is that story - and it matters not whether it is true or not, the principle of valuing LIFE above all else is the same.

A worried woman went to her gynecologist and said: 'Doctor, I have a serious problem and desperately need your help! My baby is not even 1 yr. old and I'm pregnant again. I don't want kids so close together.' So the doctor said: 'Ok, and what do you want me to do?' She said: 'I want you to end my pregnancy, and I'm counting on your help with this.'The doctor thought for a little, and after some silence he said to the lady: 'I think I have a better solution for your problem. It's less dangerous for you too.' She smiled, thinking that the doctor was going to accept her request. Then he continued: 'You see, in order for you not to have to take care of 2 babies at the same time, let's kill the one in your arms. This way, you could rest some before the other one is born. If we're going to kill one of them, it doesn't matter which one it is. There would be no risk for your body if you chose the one in your arms. The lady was horrified and said: 'No doctor! How terrible! It's a crime to kill a child!'I agree', the doctor replied. 'But you seemed to be ok with it, so I thought maybe that was the best solution. The doctor smiled, realizing that he had made his point. He convinced the mom that there is no difference in killing a child that's already been born and one that's still in the womb. The crime is the same! If you agree, please forward. Together we can help save precious lives! AMEN

If you are a woman who fell for the lie of an abortion as a 'solution', you need to know that God loves you ANYWAY! You will see your baby in heaven again some day. All you need to do to insure that is to ask His forgiveness and claim Jesus as the Lord of your life. Go to any Bible believing church and be transparent. There is help for you. If I can even help lead you to the forgiveness God has for you, please email me!

I support Mike Huckabee - the man, his policies, common sense...

As I write, I've just finished watching Huckabee - Mike Huckabee's program on Fox News that airs for us here in central Illinois at 10 pm on Sunday nights. My husband and I love this program. It is sensitive, full of common sense, AND inspirational. Regardless of your political persuasion, I encourage you to tune in - then come comment here to let me know what you think.

If you're curious as to what this outstanding, moral, sensitive man stands for - read his book, Do The Right Thing. Just think about it - if everyone just "did the right thing" how much public funds would be released to do good work. In his book, Governor Huckabee describes what he accomplished in his state of Arkansas. Read the facts for yourself instead of believing the media's version. He also warns us of the oft-used phrase: 'over time'. Heard of the Fair Tax? I had no idea what this concept really was until I read his book. Wonder what a political race is really like? For someone without endless streams of $$, Huckabee describes traveling from event to event - flying on regular airplanes and waiting in line - just like you and me. That's the kind of representative in Washington - the kind of PRESIDENT that I'm looking for. .. someone who is REALLY like you and me - and who thinks no higher of himself than he ought to - than ANY person should. I see so much of the problem of those 'representing' us in Washington as simply that power has gone to their heads. They forget who they are working for. They forget the 'little guy' - regardless of what they might say. For me it all boils down to the precious truth I learned in my study of the book of Daniel by Beth Moore....that everything in life is determined by who your God is. If it is yourself, your 'stuff', what others think of you...you are worshiping graven images. Only God - who created heaven and earth, as made real to me in the personhood and life of Jesus Christ is worthy of my worship. Period. THAT is the truth I claim and stake all that I am upon.

I feel and believe and pray that Mike Huckabee runs again to lead our country. If that is the case, I'll be supporting him as actively as my life possibly allows. Meanwhile - I intend to read his book AGAIN, to study his common sense approach, and to pray for God's will for him, and for our country in these troubled times - learning whatever God has for me to learn along the way. In my support of Mike (yes, I feel that he is that approachable - that he would WANT me to call him by his first name - Mike) , I will forever be vigilant that in my support - I do not make him into a God. I know he wouldn't want that - as he, too, is a fellow TRUE believer in the one, true God. That makes all the difference.

Reading Recommendations

Never have had a TV in our bedroom - we both read every night to go to sleep - and whenever I've 'had it' with either the computer (usually) or sewing (though rarely!), I just escape into my 'other world' reading.

Just finished Neta Jackson's first book in her new House of Hope series - Where Do I Go? This is a sequel to her YaDa YaDa series of books... It was just wonderful - and very convicting to me personally of how I look at homeless people, and what God is calling me to do with the time I have to be 'the feet of Jesus'...especially when family demands on my time lessen later this year. I can not recommend Neta Jackson's books highly enough. Along with Karen Kingsbury, I have never been more influenced regarding my role in our current world than by these 2 authors.
Neta's website is here: http://www.daveneta.com/books/YadaYada6/YadaYada6.htm

I think I recommended The Shack earlier this year - if not, I sure do. I use it - and thinking carefully about the theologically correct (my pastor says so too) ideas presented in it about how God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit 'see' things. It also has a website you'd find interesting...
http://www.theshackbook.com/ I used this book as 6 gifts at Christmas time. Say enough?

The other novel I finished recently is totally different - about a group of women pioneers going west - by Jane kirkpatrick, it is All Together in One Place. I've never read many western type things, but this one really gave me a new appreciation for all of my creature comforts - that's for sure! Would be a good read for any spoiled teenager of Gen-X'er!

AND - last but not least, Do The Right Thing by Mike Huckabee. The true picture this is giving me of our 'leadeers' in Washington D.C. makes me sick to my stomach and madder than a jack rabbit. The stories of his campaign, intermingled with his life and political philosophies help me go to sleep at night in these troubling times. That - and feeling secure in God's love for us all who believe in Him. I'm praying that this outstanding man of God continues to persist, and perhaps becomes the next Republican Presidential candidate. Regardless of your political leanings, just read it - or watch Huckabee on Fox News at 10 on Sunday nights, and see if you don't agree.
A breath of fresh, honest, upright air - and believe me, here in Illinois, that is sorely needed!

Engage with me in Merry Tossmas

Just got this email - and WOW! Do I ever agree! Be sure to click on the title of this post to watch the very entertaining - and pointedly true video on "Tossmas".

Here is the list of Christmas-friendly retailers - that I will support. In fact, I plan on going to Bed Bath & Beyond with my 20% off coupon, asking to see the Manager, then respectfully rip it up in their presence and tell them why and that I'm on my way over to Linen n' Things to buy that coffee maker for my hubby for a CHRISTMAS gift because they call Dec. 25 what it is - Christmas!

See below - and participate as you feel led. I feel better that I've shared it with you!

Focus on the Family Action’s2008 Christmas-Friendly Shopping Guide

How leading retailers’ messages rate
Last updated: 11/13/08
We welcome your use of these ratings in your shopping decisions. As an additional way to help you communicate with the retailers we evaluated, we are providing the convenience of a petition which you can sign by visiting focuspetitions.com.
Retailers will be presented with petitions – thanking those that embrace “Christmas,” and alerting those that have purged or marginalized “Christmas” that you object to the secularization of Christmas. We hope you will “stand for Christmas” with us and encourage the continued acknowledgement of this historic Christian observance in our culture.
"Christmas-friendly" retailers– prominent acknowledgment of "Christmas"
Cabela's Crate&Barrel Dillard's Eddie Bauer JCPenney Kohl's

L.L.Bean Lands' End Linens 'n Things Lowe’s Macy's Neiman Marcus Nordstrom Pier 1 Imports Sears The Home Depot Target Wal-Mart

“Christmas-negligent” retailers – marginalized use of “Christmas”
Barnes & Noble Bed Bath & Beyond Best Buy Borders
Circuit City Dick's Sporting Goods GAP KB Toys Kmart Toys “R” Us

“Christmas-offensive” retailers – apparent abandonment of “Christmas”
American Eagle Banana Republic Bloomingdale's Lane Bryant Old Navy

Originally published by Focus on the Family Action. Copyright © 2008 Focus on the Family.

I REALLY admire Huckabee

I caught - for the first time last night - Huckabee on FoxNews - it was 10 pm CST here in Illinois. My hubby and I both liked (and rooted) for him during the Republican primaries. He seems down-to-earth, honest, 'real', wise, quick-witted, truthful, and just 'one of us' in my humble opinion. I pray that he stays around - keeps speaking up, and that we see him even more in the forefront - and hopefully our next Republican candidate for President.